Some would have you believe that readily-accessible internet pornography is to blame, as women compare their bodies to those of the adult actresses they see on screen.

But I'd question whether that argument is actually a nonsense.

It's much more complicated than that.

A big factor in the trend is our increasing openness as a society. Women are now talking more frankly about the appearance of their genitalia, breaking down taboos and becoming more aware of the options they have.

There are genuine reasons why women over the age of 18 should be free to make informed decisions about their own bodies.

And it's got nothing to do with 'vanity'.

Reasons for the surgery can vary from difficulties during sexual intercourse to not being able to exercise because their labia is too large.

Some patients are unable to wear tight clothing, and some don't have intimate relationships at all because they are too embarrassed of their own appearance.

That can lead to very real physical and emotional issues.

Why discourage a procedure that can have benefits for these women who often suffer in silence?

If you're one of the many females in Britain affected, do your research. Think about the risks. Ask yourself, 'Am I embarking on this journey for the right reasons?'

After all, no surgery should be undertaken on a whim.

The treatment itself, which can cost between £2,500 and £4,000, sees excess tissue removed from the labia - the areas skin either side of the opening of the vagina - with either a scalpel or laser.

Patients are advised to avoid sexual intercourse for around three weeks following surgery and to wear loose underwear and clothing.

But if labiaplasty can empower women, putting them back in control of their own bodies, it's my view that a 'designer vagina' can often be a very good thing indeed.